For John Smith, success isn’t measured in sales numbers or awards — it’s measured in relationships.

At age 31, the State Farm agent and small business owner has built his career on the belief that people come before policies.

“At the end of the day, it’s about relationships and people helping people,” he says. “I want my community to see me as a person, not just a company.”

The transition wasn’t easy when John and his wife moved to Lake County seven years ago to open his State Farm office.

“Neither my wife nor I had a support system here,” he says. “We had to start fresh, make friends and learn to lean on the community around us.”

Those early challenges taught him the importance of connection, teamwork and trust, lessons that define both his business and his leadership style.

John says becoming a State Farm agent was a defining moment in his life.

“It’s been life-changing,” he says. “This opportunity has allowed me to impact so many lives — from my customers to my employees and the community in ways I never thought possible.”

He brings that same competitive drive and heart that served him well as a college baseball player to his work.

He’s also passionate about giving back to local schools and hopes to inspire the next generation to chase their goals.

“If I can help provide opportunities for kids who might not otherwise have them, that’s what it’s all about,” he says.

Each day, John wakes up driven by family and purpose.

“I get to show up for my wife and daughters at home, then go to work and help my employees grow into the best versions of themselves,” he says. “When we do that, we all get to take better care of our customers and our community. That’s what makes it worth it.”